Question 1

What is the DHA dental licence and who needs it?

Accepted Answer

The DHA (Dubai Health Authority) dental licence is the mandatory authorisation required to practise dentistry in Dubai. All internationally trained dentists who want to work in a DHA-licensed facility — whether a clinic, hospital, or polyclinic — must obtain a DHA dental licence through the Sheryan portal.

Question 2

How can an international dentist get a DHA dental licence?

Accepted Answer

International dentists obtain a DHA dental licence by completing the DHA self-assessment tool, submitting documents for DataFlow primary source verification (PSV), applying for DHA professional registration through Sheryan, and sitting the DHA Prometric dental examination if required under the DHA Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR).

Question 3

What is DataFlow verification for DHA dental registration?

Accepted Answer

DataFlow primary source verification (PSV) is a mandatory background screening process for all DHA dental applications. DataFlow contacts your university, home country dental council, and previous employers directly to verify that your degree, licence, and experience certificates are genuine. It typically takes 4–8 weeks.

Question 4

What is the DHA Prometric dental exam?

Accepted Answer

The DHA Prometric dental exam is a computer-based multiple-choice examination assessing clinical and theoretical knowledge. It is required for most internationally trained dentists applying for a DHA dental licence. Dentists with recognised specialist fellowships (such as FDS RCS or American Board certification) may be exempt — eligibility for exemption is checked as part of the DHA PQR assessment.

Question 5

What IELTS or OET score is needed for a DHA dental licence?

Accepted Answer

There is no mandatory IELTS or OET score requirement set by DHA for dental licensing. However, strong English proficiency is essential because the DHA Prometric exam is conducted entirely in English. Many DHA-licensed employers also set their own English language requirement. IELTS Academic 6.0 or OET Grade C is the commonly recommended benchmark.

Question 6

What documents are required for a DHA dental licence application?

Accepted Answer

Documents required include a valid passport, passport-size photographs, dental degree certificate, academic transcripts, internship completion certificate, home country dental licence, certificate of good standing, experience certificates, English language results, DataFlow PSV documents, police clearance certificate, and medical fitness certificate.

Question 7

What is the DHA Professional Qualification Requirement (PQR) for dentists?

Accepted Answer

The DHA PQR is the official standard that determines the minimum qualification and experience a dentist must have to be eligible for a DHA dental licence. It specifies the degree type, number of years of experience required, and whether an exam is mandatory — these requirements vary based on the dentist's country and year of graduation.

Question 8

How long does DHA dental registration take for international dentists?

Accepted Answer

From submitting a complete DHA application, the eligibility decision typically takes 4–8 weeks. DataFlow PSV runs concurrently and usually takes 4–8 weeks. The end-to-end process from document submission to DHA licence activation — including the Prometric exam — generally takes 3–5 months when documents are complete and correctly prepared.

Question 9

Can a fresh dental graduate apply for a DHA dental licence?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the DHA PQR for your specific qualification and country of graduation. Some categories require a minimum of two years of post-graduation clinical experience, while others permit fresh graduates to apply. MCDI reviews your profile during consultation to confirm your eligibility before you begin the application.

Question 10

What does MCDI's DHA dental documentation assistance include?

Accepted Answer

MCDI's DHA documentation assistance covers eligibility review against DHA PQR, preparation and review of all required documents, guidance on DataFlow primary source verification, Sheryan portal application support, and step-by-step guidance through the DHA dental licensing process. MCDI also offers a DHA dental exam preparation course and mock Prometric test series.

Question 11

Can a BDS graduate from India apply for a DHA dental licence in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BDS graduates from India are among the most common applicants for a DHA dental licence in Dubai. Your BDS degree from an MCI/DCI-recognised dental college is accepted by DHA, subject to meeting the DHA Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) for your year and university of graduation. Most Indian BDS graduates need a minimum of 2 years of post-graduation experience and must pass the DHA Prometric dental exam. MCDI specialises in helping Indian BDS graduates navigate the entire DHA licensing process.